SB 202 Summary

• Amends Ohio Revised Code sections 2903.01, 2903.11, 2903.12, 2903.13, and 2929.04 to include public utility workers in provisions previously limited to law enforcement officers.

• Defines "public utility worker" as an employee of a public utility (including the United States Postal Service) who works at various customer locations performing delivery, installation, or repair duties.

• Increases penalties for felonious assault, aggravated assault, and assault when the victim is a public utility worker, elevating them to match penalties for offenses against peace officers and investigators.

• Adds the killing of a public utility worker to the list of aggravating circumstances that can result in the death penalty for aggravated murder, requiring proof that the offender knew the victim was a public utility worker and either the victim was engaged in duties or the offender specifically intended to kill a public utility worker.

• Establishes mandatory minimum prison sentences for offenses against public utility workers, including enhanced penalties when the victim suffers serious physical harm.